Fashion

An Island Girl’s Guide to Spicing Up a Simple Shirt and Jeans

Style is something that evolves, and you shouldn’t be afraid to go beyond your comfort zone.

Have you ever had difficulty in finding an outfit?

Sometimes—okay that’s an understatement; most times—I find myself sitting on my bedroom floor, staring into the depths of my cramped closet with clothes strewn haphazardly around me. I’d pull out a shirt, give it a once-over, try it on and decide that no, I’m not feeling it, before I proceed to toss it on my bed. Or the the bedside table. Or The Chair—you know, that one chair in your bedroom where you dump all your clothes.

And then, repeat.

It’s probably an interesting sight. I swear my cats give me judgmental looks to hurry up, but they probably just want attention (or some cat chow). I’m sure that I’m not the only one who spends so much time doing this. It might not be the most endearing habit, but to me, it’s important to dress well.

For island girls like me, it can be challenging to find an outfit that works. Cebu’s ever-changing temperatures can be a limitation to dressing well; in the morning, the sweltering heat is enough to make you sweat buckets, but hours later it’s pouring cats and dogs. Some people would try on multiple outfits but opt to dress lightly in the end so as not to sacrifice comfort.

The city’s transport system can be another limitation, too. It’s hard to be in full #OOTD mode and get to one place from another unless you’re willing to brave the traffic that comes with driving, and even that takes a good chunk of the time you could have spent doing something else. There are those who would probably just throw on what they immediately see and get going quickly so they could catch a ride to their destination.

A lot of external factors come into play when deciding an outfit. However, I like to think that even with all these, you can still pull together a good look. Take your simple t-shirt and pair of jeans, for example.

Spice it up with colours

: Plain white t-shirt from H&M

: Raw-cut wide-leg ankle jeans from Forever 21

: Slip-on sandals from Nine West

: Skinny scarf from Uniqlo

A plain t-shirt made out of a light fabric would look chic if you switch out your typical denim jeans for ankle-cut ones with a raw hem. This cut flatters many body types and heights. A colourful silk neck scarf adds instant spice to the simplicity. Topped off with slip-on sandals, you’re set for making your way comfortably around the city.

Cinch and stretch

: Striped cropped t-shirt from H&M

: High-rise skinny jeans from Forever 21

: Resin hoop earrings from Zara

: Platform sneakers from Keds

Another way to wear this basic look is to wear a cropped top or, if you’re not comfortable with the length, you can opt to knot the hem of your shirt to give the illusion of a cinched waist. Balance it out with high-waisted slim-fit jeans along with platform sneakers to add height. Finish the look with fun and quirky accessories like statement earrings or a necklace.

Play with textures

: Grommet cutout jeans from Forever 21

: Cardigan with pearl beads from Zara

: Low-heeled block sandals from Aldo

: Broderie anglaise top from H&M

Elevate the combo by wearing a textured shirt like those made out of silk, linen, corduroy or anything that isn’t cut from your usual cotton. For jeans, go for something unusual like a pair of straight-leg denims with grommet details on the sides. Complement the look with a pair of low-heeled sandals. If it rains, you can easily throw on a lightweight cardigan.

It’s never wrong to work with textures and fabrics, add some accessories you wouldn’t normally wear, or opt for a different cut than what you’re used to. Style is something that evolves, and you shouldn’t be afraid to go beyond your comfort zone.

Related Topics:Aldo Forever 21 H&M Keds Nine West Zara

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Fashion

The Qipao As Interpreted by Innovative Filipino Designers: PHILIP RODRIGUEZ

The Qipao, an iconic symbol of Chinese fashion, takes center stage as we celebrate the Lunar New Year of the Wood Dragon. This singular closely-fitted garment crafted from the most opulent silks originated in 1920’s Shanghai. ZEE fashion editor Oj Hofer, has sought the creative insights of some of the Philippines’ most innovative designers for their interpretation of the elegant Qipao, also known as Cheongsam.

Cebu’s esteemed designer, Philip Rodriguez, pays homage to imperial attire with this stunning yellow silk brocade qipao. While adhering to the traditional cheongsam silhouette, Rodriguez infuses a touch of sensuality by incorporating see-through silk tulle panels along the waistline. Known for his timeless designs and culturally respectful creations, Rodriguez’s attention to detail is unparalleled. His embellishments are intricate and exquisite, showcasing impeccable taste and luxurious design without veering into ostentation. Take, for instance, his cheongsam for the Year of the Dragon. While it may seem daring compared to traditional sensibilities, Rodriguez maintains elegance by delicately veiling the wearer’s skin with sheer tulle on the cutout side panels. The front slit of the dress is cautiously calculated to strike the perfect balance between modesty and allure “I design for women who possess sophistication beyond their years, “ Philip emphasizes. “My clothes are crafted to evoke a sense of beauty and allure, leaving her feeling exquisite and confident.” As a seasoned designer, Rodriguez consistently achieves harmony in his designs. His qipao for 2024 seamlessly blends elements of royalty and sensuality, luxury and practicality, reflecting his mastery of the craft and his ability to create pieces that are truly elegant and well-balance.

Fashion

The Qipao As Interpreted by Innovative Filipino Designers: JC BUENDIA

JC Buendia, celebrated for his ability to tell a million style stories through minimalist details, is a master of clean, chic lines in fashion. Eschewing frivolity and nonsensical embellishments, every element of his designs contributes to their overall elegance.

Inspired by cinematic portrayals of Chinoiserie, Buendia’s first fascination with the Qipao began with Gloria Romero’s iconic portrayal of a Chinese princess disguised as a ‘sampan’ girl in the 1957 film “Hong Kong Holiday.”

“This admiration for orientalalia only deepened as I watched films like “The Last Emperor” and “In The Mood For Love,” JC recalls.

Buendia’s latest creation is a testament to this cinematic influence. His interpretation of the Qipao for the Year of the Wood Dragon features a cropped top crafted from silk Dupioni, embellished with diamond brooches on the reverse closure for a touch of glamour. Paired with a tea-length bouffant skirt made from frothy layers of delicate tulle, the ensemble exudes sophistication and timeless elegance.

With meticulous attention to detail and a keen eye for design, JC Buendia’s Qipao captures the essence of cinematic glamour while offering a contemporary twist on a classic silhouette. It’s a tribute to the enduring allure of Chinoiserie and the timeless beauty of the Cheongsam.

Fashion

The Qipao As Interpreted by Innovative Filipino Designers: PROTACIO EMPACES

Protacio Empaces is renowned for his talent in reinventing historical silhouettes into stylish statements perfect for modern women’s lifestyles. His reinterpretations present wearable, contemporary, and highly coveted fashion pieces. The distinct embroidery he incorporates adds an extra touch of charm to his creations. Take, for instance, his cheongsam adorned with delicately hand-embroidered macro daisies and trapunto leaves. “I imagined a vibrant qipao inspired by tropical aesthetics, tailored for chic city living in ASEAN mega-cities. I’m using cotton pique for its structure and infusing it with lively colours to retain a stylish, sensual silhouette,” explains Protacio. His knee-length qipao captures the timeless sophistication seen in Maggie Cheong’s iconic look in the classic film “In the Mood for Love.” Crafted for the Year of the Dragon, this design seamlessly complements the film’s aesthetic, presenting a potential addition to the character’s wardrobe. Seasoned designer Protacio’s creations speak to women aged 30 to 80. His intial Qipao offering for 2024 combines modern elegance with classic charm that resonates with these women’s sophisticated tastes and vibrant lifestyles.